Redknapp chasing ‘new Messi’; Bayern join race for Ashley Young

Redknapp chasing ‘new Messi’

Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp has joined the race for River Plate midfielder Juan Jose Vea Murguia, according to The Mirror.

The 18-year-old midfielder, dubbed the ‘new Messi’ for his style of play, has already rejected a contract offer from River Plate and is likely to move clubs next summer.

Murguia has been offered a chance to play in both Spain and Italy but it is believed that his family would prefer him to join a Premier League side.

The Argentine hotshot is expected to arrive to England during the next few weeks, where he will hold talks with the Tottenham manager.

Murguia is likely to fly to London after taking part in Under-17 South American championship later this month.

The youngster will be able to join Tottenham on a free transfer next summer, but Spurs first want to make sure he is eligible for Spanish citizenship before offering him a long-term deal.

The 18-year-old is touted as one of the hottest prospects in Argentine football, but having yet to make his senior debut, nothing can guarantee that he would be a hit at White Hart Lane.

Bayern join race for Ashley Young

Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich are ready to join the race for Aston Villa star Ashley Young.

The England international is already tracked by Manchester United, Liverpool and Tottenham, and Villa face a tough task of trying to keep hold of their most prized asset in the summer.

The Bavarians are desperate to add some quality to the side that have been terribly underperforming this term and they see Young as a good addition to the squad.

Bayern already have Robben and Ribery on the wings, as well as Thomas Muller in the attacking midfield role, but they want to make sure to have the cover for the attacking positions should another injury crisis strike.

The Germans sent a scout to watch Young play for Villa against Bolton and their representative was reportedly pleased with the player’s performance even though Young missed a penalty at Reebok.

With Young unwilling to extend his contract which expires in June 2012, everything suggests the player will be the subject of a real bidding war next summer.

[Source: Daily Mail]

Atletico tracking Arturo Vidal

Atletico Madrid have shown interest in Bayer Leverkusen utility player Arturo Vidal, according to AS.

Los Colchoneros are eager to continue the process of rebuilding the team and they have made the Chilean midfielder their number one target.

Atletico officials had a chance to witness the player’s potential at first hand as los Colchoneros clashed with Bayer Leverkusen in Europa League and they are now ready to materialize their interest.

After impressing at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, the 23-year-old continued his rich vein of form at Leverkusen, attracting admiring glances from big European clubs.

Vidal is owned by a German agency, who bought 70% of his contract for €8.2 million in 2007, but his current price is in the area of €17 million.

Atletico need to act quickly if they are to get their man since clubs like Milan and Bayern Munich are also keen on the Chile international.

There is no doubt Vidal’s versatility would be a major asset for underperforming Atletico, although los Colchoneros are unlikely to be the first club on the player’s list should he decided to leave Leverkusen.

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